Emiratis can now secure project funding for business ideas with community impact under a new government initiative in Dubai.

The Furjan Fund supports social events that strengthen the development of ties between neighborhoods in this vibrant emirate, with the aim of creating social cohesion and unifying communities.

These proposals should highlight employee benefits, include a financial strategy, demonstrate a competent team, and describe ways to measure success. Ideas should be sent to the fund’s website.

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“The fund can finance projects aimed at improving communication between citizens in neighborhoods and organizing seasonal events while focusing on the economic empowerment of Emiratis, the promotion of a healthy lifestyle, the consolidation of “national identity and the activation of groups centered on common hobbies,” said Rashed Alhajeri, director of the Al. Furjan Fund.

Launched by Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Maktoum in 2023 and under the leadership of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, the fund focuses on supporting Emirati citizens through social projects that positively impact Dubai’s neighborhoods and improve the quality of life of residents.

Funded projects

So far, the fund has supported and launched 15 projects, including a summer camp, the Al Ferjan Padel Challenge and the Hatta Ramadan Championship. All these initiatives are organized by Emiratis who concentrate and connect the neighborhoods of Dubai together.

In a health-promoting move, the fund has partnered with Hattrick Academy and Dubai Municipality to make football training affordable, promote sustainability and community engagement.

Additionally, they have also partnered with an upcoming festival called Expo 971, which celebrates Emirati culture with educational and entertainment activities organized by the Ousha Bint Hussein Cultural Center.

These events, supported by collaborations with various entities, including Al Ameen, Awqaf, Ferjan Dubai and DP World, are part of a long-term vision. Their aim is to support educational and entertaining events linked to Emirati heritage and ensure their sustainability.

Alhajeri described it as a community-driven initiative rather than a for-profit venture, emphasizing the urgency of such initiatives: “As Dubai grows and residents are redistributed, neighborhoods lose their sense of connectivity. »

Sara AlKuwari

Sara AlKuwari is an Emirati journalist who may appear shy and quiet, but is determined and eager to showcase Emirati culture in an impactful way. She is also a tea lover and an avid reader.